Uses for a Sun Lamp

While the dangers of the sun are well known, including the risk of cancer, sunlight and light in general provide benefits. These benefits are not only physical but also mental. A safe way to gain the benefits of sunlight without having to be in the sun is using a sun lamp. The light emitted by a sun lamp can be greater than what is found outside. The lamp can also be used year-round.

Vitamin D

• Vitamin D is vital to proper bone health as well as mental health and energy. The sun is the best source of vitamin D, but not everyone can tolerate spending time in the sun, especially those with sensitive skin that burns easily. In addition, not all areas of the world receive much sunlight. Sun lamps are used to provide vitamin D. Your doctor may also have you take vitamin D supplements along with using a sun lamp.

Jet Lag

• Using a sun lamp also helps the body recover from jet lag. This happens when the body gets out of sync after going across time zones. It gets off rhythm, which leads to feelings of exhaustion. It's difficult to put the body back on track, but approximately 30 minutes a day using the sun lamp should get the body back on a normal schedule.

Mental Health

• Depression, particularly seasonal affective disorder, can be helped with regular use of a sun lamp. Depression can occur when the lack of sunlight causes serotonin levels to dip. A sun lamp can be used in conjunction with other therapy, such as counseling and medication. Consult with a physician to determine whether this can help you, and find out how often you should use the sun lamp.